Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Creamy Potato Ham Casserole! Imagine a dish that combines the hearty comfort of perfectly cooked potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, creamy sauce that will have your family begging for seconds. This American classic is not just a meal – it's a warm hug on a plate that promises to become an instant family favorite, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash and peel the potatoes, then dice them into uniform 1/2-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and consistent texture throughout the casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, diced ham, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well mixed and evenly distributed.
- Transfer the potato and ham mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth surface.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, which will help retain moisture and prevent the top from browning too quickly.
- Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes.
- After 35 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired for added color and flavor.
Tips
- Potato Prep Matters: Cut your potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Cheese Selection: While cheddar is classic, experiment with different cheese blends like a mix of cheddar and monterey jack for added depth of flavor.
- Moisture is Key: Always cover the casserole with foil for the first part of baking to keep the dish moist and prevent the top from burning.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the dish set and makes serving much easier.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.
- Customize Your Casserole: Feel free to add extra vegetables like diced onions or peas for more nutrition and flavor variety.
- Leftover Love: This dish reheats beautifully, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 217kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 12g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
